Roxanne Ney'S Cranberry Salad
A vibrant and tangy cranberry salad featuring sweet jello, pineapple, and cranberry sauce, topped with creamy Cool Whip and walnuts — perfect for holiday gatherings or festive occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix together the three small boxes of red jello with 2 cups hot water and 2 cups cold water.
- Add the crushed pineapple and whole cranberry sauce to the jello mixture and stir until well combined.
- Pour the mixture into a mold or dish and let set until firm, about 2-4 hours or overnight.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the Cool Whip and cream cheese until smooth.
- Spread the Cool Whip and cream cheese mixture evenly over the set cranberry salad.
- Sprinkle with walnuts and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a vibrant color, ensure the jello is completely dissolved before adding the other ingredients. If you want to reduce sweetness, consider using sugar-free jello or substituting the whole cranberry sauce with homemade cranberry compote. You can also add chopped apples or nuts for extra texture. For a festive touch, garnish with pomegranate seeds or mint leaves.
Serving Suggestions
This cranberry salad is a delightful addition to holiday meals or potlucks and pairs beautifully with dishes like Sausage Skillet Casserole or Zippy Pretzels. Serve it chilled as a refreshing side, or enjoy it as a light dessert. For added flair, consider serving in individual cups topped with extra Cool Whip and fresh fruit.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salad may become slightly watery over time, so give it a gentle stir before serving. Avoid freezing, as the texture of the jello and whipped topping may change upon thawing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Roxanne Ney'S Cranberry Salad contains roughly 936 calories, with 21g protein, 32g carbohydrates, and 87g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (42% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (26% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium. It also contributes 7g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different flavors of jello?
Yes, you can experiment with different jello flavors like orange or peach for a unique twist. Just be mindful that the flavor profile will change, so choose a flavor that complements the cranberry and pineapple.
Is there a way to make this salad healthier?
To make the salad healthier, you can use low-fat or non-dairy whipped topping and cream cheese. Additionally, using fresh cranberries instead of canned sauce will cut down on sugar while adding a tart flavor.
How can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You can prepare the jello and let it set the night before, then add the Cool Whip and cream cheese mixture right before serving. This way, it remains fresh and visually appealing for your guests.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).